Trump Says Israel Can Decide on Full Gaza Occupation, Sparks Global Concern

Former US President Donald Trump has stirred global controversy after stating that the decision to fully occupy the Gaza Strip is “up to Israel.”

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Trump deflected questions about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s alleged plans to reoccupy Gaza, stating that his main concern is delivering food aid to the starving population. However, he added, “As far as the rest of it, I really can’t say. That’s going to be pretty much up to Israel.”

His remarks come as Israel’s war on Gaza, launched in October 2023, has killed over 61,000 Palestinians, displaced millions, and reduced much of the enclave to rubble.

The United Nations responded swiftly. Miroslav Jenca, UN Assistant Secretary-General, warned the Security Council that any attempt to reoccupy Gaza could cause “catastrophic consequences.” He reiterated that Gaza must remain part of a future independent Palestinian state, in line with international law.

Although Israel unilaterally withdrew from Gaza in 2005, many experts have considered the territory under de facto occupation, as Israel controls its borders, airspace, and sea routes.

Since the 2023 war, right-wing Israeli leaders have called for restoring settlements and permanent military presence — moves deemed illegal under international law. Trump had earlier suggested a vision of turning Gaza into a “Riviera of the Middle East,” which critics likened to ethnic cleansing.

While Trump claimed the US has sent $60 million in food aid, ground reports indicate severe access restrictions, with aid convoys targeted or blocked. Thousands face starvation, and multiple reports have emerged of people being shot while trying to reach food trucks.

Yet, US military support for Israel remains unabated, drawing harsh criticism from human rights groups.